A petition with over 200 signatures has made its way around school in an attempt for student resource officer, (SRO), Officer Tommy Wooten to remain in the SRO program. The petition was started by senior Austin Hazelton. After five successful years as a student resource officer, Officer Tommy Wooten is returning to the patrol division for the Springdale Police Department.

“I started the petition because Officer Wooten is an awesome guy and everyone likes him and trusts him,” said Hazelton.

According to Lieutenant Derek Hudson, officers are rotated out of positions in order for other officers to experience a variety of fields in different sectors of the police department and to also create well-rounded, experienced officers.

“It’s the best job I’ve ever had in my life,” said Officer Wooten. “I was heart-broken when I was told I was being moved because since 2008 I’ve been working with students, and I feel connected with the students here.”

Officer Wooten began his service in the SRO program at Springdale High School in 2007 and moved to Har-Ber in 2009.

“I have worked in three districts with SRO’s and Officer Wooten is the best resource officer I’ve worked with,” said Principal Danny Brackett. “I’m saddened by his leaving because I have great affection for him professionally and personally.”

According to Lt. Hudson, the goal of the SRO program is first safety and security for the students and school. The second goal of the program is to create a trust between the police department and the community.

“The SRO programs allows the community to see a different side of a police officer,” said Hudson, who oversees the SRO program. “Officer Wooten is wonderful officer and did awesome things for Har-Ber.”

During his time as a resource officer, Officer Wooten set up the SWAT club, created a dry food storage pantry, established the Har-Ber Crime Stoppers, and much more.

Next school year, Officer Jake Franklin will take Officer Wooten’s place as the SRO. Officer Franklin has previously served a detective in the juvenile division.

“I’m looking forward to providing a safe environment for Har-Ber and I enjoy working with kids,” said Officer Franklin.

Leading up to his full-time position for the next school year, Officer Franklin is currently shadowing Officer Wooten in order to familiarize himself with the daily activities of the school.

“I want to leave behind a legacy; kind of my boot print in the concrete,” said Officer Wooten. “I’m going to miss the day-to-day interactions with students, and I hope to maintain the relationships I have built with them. As a resource officer, people need you and I like feeling connected. I hope students see that policemen are people too and that they are approachable.”

To become an SRO, an officer must have two years of service, a good record, fill-out a request form and from there the school chooses the officer fit for their school.

“I’m heartbroken to see him leave,” said lead science teacher Leslie Pitman. “He knows the students as well as we do and it’s hard to see that go.”